--- 3rd Person POV ---
--- 8th of September 1904 ---
For years, Yuvraj Siagu have wanted to invite Albert Einstein to work in Butuan as one of its researchers and scientist. But each year, Yuvraj Siagu fails to do so as it was not easy for his people to locate Albert Einstein, not to mention that the man is also hesitant on working under Asian countries.
After the success of ousting the Japanese in Korea and establishing alliances with Korea, Japan, and Siam, Yuvraj Siagu fully understood that the world is already different from his previous known one. Not to mention that Rasputin have manages to creeps on the Imperial Russian court in a much earlier year. Thus, it would be foolish for Yuvraj Siagu to still clinging to the idea that his previous known timeline will happen in his current one.
This is why, Yuvraj Siagu decided to recruit his known scientist and individuals who have contributed a lot on the advancement of the scientific world. And over the years, despite the challenges and racist ideologist, Yuvraj Siagu manages to employ few famous scientists to defect their homeland and opted to work under the Butuan government. And one example of this one is Nikola Tesla, whom have been working under the government of Butuan for two years now.
All scientists of the empire are under the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture and the Ministry of Defence. And to secure the confidentiality of the researches conducted by the empire, Minister Nair and Minister Ahmadi bin Haji ordered each head of research to allow foreign born scientist to work as assistance and under surveillance for a year and two. To avoid having the confidential researches being sold towards other countries.
"Yes, and according to what I have heard from the reports. This man has shown unwavering interest towards research and the advancement in the scientific community. The Riverbanks Imperial Institution have also wanted to hire him as one of the foreign professors of the institution, just like Pierre Curie." Minister Nair continued.
"And? How did it go?" Yuvraj Siagu inquired with curiosity.
"He declined the offer, is what I have heard." Minister Nair answered.
Yuvraj Siagu nodded in acknowledgment, his mind racing with possibilities. The news of Albert Einstein's arrival in Sooraj had caught him off guard, but it was also an unexpected opportunity. If Einstein had indeed been invited by Madame Curie and was now working alongside her and Pierre Curie, this could be the perfect moment to bring him into the fold of the Butuan Empire's scientific endeavours.
"Interesting," Yuvraj Siagu mused aloud, his tone thoughtful. "Madame Curie must have seen something in him that aligns with her own work. That could be beneficial for us."
Minister Nair nodded, carefully observing the Yuvraj's reaction. "Indeed, Your Imperial Highness. Madame Curie's judgment is highly respected. If she believes in this man's potential, it is likely that he could contribute greatly to our scientific progress."
Yuvraj Siagu was silent for a moment, weighing his options. The fact that Einstein had declined the offer from the Riverbanks Imperial Institution suggested that he was not easily swayed by titles or positions. It was clear that Einstein valued his independence and his research above all else, which made him both a challenge and a valuable asset.
"Minister Nair," Yuvraj Siagu finally said, his voice firm with decision, "I want you to arrange a meeting with Albert Einstein. Make it clear that this is an invitation, not a command. I wish to speak with him directly and understand his vision and aspirations. If he is truly passionate about advancing scientific knowledge, then perhaps we can find common ground."
"Of course, Your Imperial Highness," Minister Nair responded with a slight bow. "I will see to it immediately. And may I suggest, perhaps involving Madame Curie in the discussion? Her influence could be instrumental in persuading Einstein to consider our offer."
"Do as what you must," Yuvraj Siagu replied while looking at the departing Einstein, "Just make sure to make it as soon as possible. I don't want to have some issue with my schedule, specially that my fiancé will be arriving tomorrow."
Hearing Yuvraj Siagu's reply, Minister Nair could not help it but smile seeing how the future monarch of the empire cares for his time with his fiancé. Although Minister Nair is fully aware of the heavy duties underlying the title of the Maharaja or even the Yuvraj, which is sometimes harder than being a public servant due to strict imperial household rules and protocols. Minister Nair could still not help it but marvel on the Imperial Family's dedication on their duties and love towards the people.
Minister Nair have heard news and rumors about the Imperial family and its supposed involvement on corruption and suppression of the peoples' freedom. But despite these rumors, Minister Nair have seen differently on the grounds under the banner of the Butuan Empire. People of all economic standing have experienced freedom that other countries in Asia or even in the Western world have still not experienced.
Minister Nair can see how the Imperial Family of Shaja have greatly improved the living standard of the nation. Even before it became a semi-constitutional monarchy, the people of Butuan and even its slaves have experienced freedom that was not common in any parts of the world. Thus, if baffles Minister Nair on how can there be unreasonable and defaming rumors about the imperial family.
He won't deny the fact that scandals and unpleasant issues have indeed rocks the imperial family for the past years. But these rumors and scandals were not even directed towards the main branch of the family and have instead coming from the distant cadet branch of the family. Thus, the main branch of the imperial clan was just dragged by their idiotic branches, causing dissatisfaction among those loyal supporters of the imperial family.
A talk on having majority the cadet branches of the Imperial Household of Shaja be dissolved and disinherited, stripped of their imperial status have gained momentum at the house of commons. Minister Nair could remember how the current Grand Chamberlain of the Imperial Household or the Dakilang Tagdumala sa Istana (in Butuanon language) suggested this notion without blinking an eye during the latest cabinet meeting.
Minister Nair could still remember how fear creeps to his back after hearing Grand Chamberlain Hanesh's suggestion. Even the reaction of the cabinet members was still fresh on Minister Nair's head, showing how shocking the suggestion is. Not to mention that after the founding of the empire during the reign of Maharaja Siagu XI, cadet branches of the imperial family have gain significant strength that almost challenges the power of the Imperial family.
The only thing that saves the Imperial family from being overthrown by its cadet branches were the defeat that the empire has faced against the British and the French. But since then, no one have ever touched the cadet branches of the imperial family, not because of their connection with the main branch but because of their influence and power held. Thus, with what Grand Chamberlain Hanesh's suggestion, shock and fear is what the main emption that the cabinet members have felt.
The office of the Grand Chamberlain of the Imperial Household is the Ministry of Imperial Palace which oversees offices that works directly to the Imperial family, two of these are the Imperial Household Guards and the Office of the Personnel. And it is known that its words in the cabinet meeting are also the words of the maharaja, thus, despite the fear and shock Minister Nair and the others have felt during the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Aguinaldo still follows and accepted the suggestion made by the Grand Chamberlain.
And basing on the suggestion made by the Grand Chamberlain, the once mighty 350 cadet houses of the Imperial House of Shaja will be reduced to a mere 50 houses. These 50 houses were free from any scandals and corruption for the past 100 years, corruption and scandals that can damage the Imperial name of Shaja. If the motion be approved not just the 300 cadet houses be removed from the official list of cadet branches of the Imperial family but will also be reduced to a mere minor noble, stripped of the imperial privileges. Their palaces and estates will be given to the government, and the most humiliating one is their removal to the House of Lords.
Minister Nair first thought that the motion will not gain any support in the House of Commons and House of Lords due to fear of being snared by the involved cadet houses of the Imperial House of Shaja. But on a shocking turn of event, the motion gains a strong support in the House of Commons and a significant number in the House of Lords, given that not all members of the House of Lords are satisfied with the arrogance expenditure made by these cadet houses in expense of the money from the Imperial Family.
But despite this, Minister Nair knew that the it would take time before the motion of disinheriting those cadet branches came into motion. This is because the time the motion receives support from the House of Lords, representatives of those houses were not present during the deliberation.
A few minutes later, Minister Nair can see Yuvraj Siagu having a conversation with Doctor Rizal, his previous teacher. Minister Nair could see how serious the conversation between the two, making Minister Nair decides to step aside and allow some privacy for the two. Standing beside him is Senior Eunuch Radhesh, known to be the most loyal servant of the Yuvraj and rumor has it that the man is a skilled killer. Given that he came from the family who served the Imperial family for generations.
While waiting for the conversation of Yuvraj Siagu and Doctor Rizal to came to an end, Minister Nair decided to start a conversation with Senior Eunuch Radhesh. Wanting to know more about the man and possible pique about the Yuvraj's situation.
"The Yuvraj appears to be having a busy schedule for the entire month and the months to come," Minister Nair started while glancing at Senior Eunuch Radhesh.
"He sure did," Senior Eunuch Radhesh replied, "with plenty of events and gathering needed to attend to and the nearing of his Imperial highness's marriage to occur in months from now. His Imperial Highness is bound to have a hectic schedule."
Hearing the topic of marriage, Minister Nair remembers that in few months will be the union of Yuvraj Siagu and Princess Abbhantripaja of Siam. And basing on history, this would be the first time that a Yuvraj will be marrying a foreign-born princess and take her as his wife.
Even Senior Eunuch Radhesh, whom have been serving the Imperial family since childhood, were shock when he heard the news of his master marrying a foreign princess. This is because the marriage of the Yuvraj is always strategic and is under the strict rule of the household. As what Senior Eunuch Radhesh could remember, in imperial household marriage law, main members of the imperial house of Shaja are only allowed to marry nobles within the empire and should be approved by the Imperial Council.
But since the maharaja decided to marry Yuvraj Siagu to the princess of Siam. Senior Eunuch Radhesh saw how much Maharaja Siagu XV extended his influence by changing the imperial household marriage law, allowing main members of the Imperial family and its lineages to marry foreign-born royals. The decision had sent ripples through the court, breaking centuries-old traditions and sparking quiet discussions among the nobles.
Minister Nair, intrigued by the unprecedented shift, pressed further. "It must have been quite a shock to the court when the Maharaja announced his intentions."
Senior Eunuch Radhesh nodded, his face reflecting a mixture of respect and concern. "Indeed, it was. The Maharaja is a wise ruler, but even those close to him were surprised. The Imperial Council deliberated for weeks before finally giving their consent. Some saw it as a bold move, strengthening ties with Siam and enhancing our influence in the region. Others feared it might set a dangerous precedent, opening the door for further deviations from tradition."
Minister Nair considered the implications of such a union. "The political landscape of our empire has always been intricate, with every decision weighed carefully. This marriage could either solidify our power or invite unforeseen challenges."
"True," Senior Eunuch Radhesh agreed. "But His Imperial Highness, the Yuvraj, has always been different. He possesses a vision that often transcends the conventional wisdom of the court. Perhaps this marriage is part of that broader vision, one that we may not fully understand yet."
Minister Nair glanced towards the room where Yuvraj Siagu was still in discussion with Doctor Rizal. "I have always admired the Yuvraj's intellect and foresight. He is not one to act without purpose. But I wonder, how does he truly feel about this marriage? Is it merely a political alliance, or is there something more?"
Senior Eunuch Radhesh paused, choosing his words carefully. "The Yuvraj is a man of duty, but he is also a man of deep thoughts and emotions. While the marriage may have started as a strategic move, I believe there is genuine respect and perhaps even affection for Princess Abbhantripaja. She is a formidable woman in her own right, and together, they could form a partnership that not only serves the empire but also brings them personal happiness."
"Yet she was born from a mere concubine to start with," Minister Nair commented recalling the information he knew about the Yuvraj's fiancé.
But while Minister Nair finishes his words and waiting for Senior Eunuch Radhesh's words of reply, a sudden chills and discomfort creeps in Minister Nair's back. It was as if fingers of coldness started to run from his back to his head. This causes Minister Nair to search for the cause of his sudden chill and discomfort, taking a gaze through the entire room.
Only to see a deathly glare coming from Senior Eunuch Radhesh himself, clearly unsatisfied with the words form Minister Nair himself. Startled by the sudden change of mood of Senior Eunuch Radhesh, Minister Nair could not help but pause for a bit and contemplate on his words. Trying to find something wrong on what he said, but have found nothing.
Unsatisfied with the silence and the words of Minister Nair, Senior Eunuch Radhesh replied with displeasure and a warning, "Be careful on your words, Minister Nair. The Yuvraj's fiancé is still a royal and of greater standing compared to us. She might be once a mere child of a concubine but she is now a princess by standing and of great value."
Minister Nair's face flushed as the weight of Senior Eunuch Radhesh's words sank in. He had not intended to offend, but he realized too late that his comment had crossed a line. The intricate hierarchy and the respect owed to those of royal blood were matters taken seriously in the imperial court, and even the slightest misstep could have repercussions.
"My apologies, Senior Eunuch Radhesh," Minister Nair said, bowing his head in a gesture of contrition. "It was not my intention to speak out of turn or disrespect Her Highness. I recognize the importance of her role and the significance of this union."
Senior Eunuch Radhesh's glare softened slightly, though his expression remained stern. "We must all remember our place, Minister Nair. The Maharaja and Maharani's decisions are not ours to question, especially when they concern matters of state and the imperial family. Princess Abbhantripaja, regardless of her origins, has earned her place at the Yuvraj's side. The empire's strength lies in its unity, and such unity begins with respect for our leaders and their choices.
And if this is the time during the reign of the previous maharajas, you, Minister Nair, would not be able to see the light of the day after uttering such words. "
Minister Nair nodded; the message clear. "You are right, Senior Eunuch. I will be more mindful of my words in the future."
Despite being only a courtier of the Imperial family and a much younger individual, Minister Nair still maintains respect towards Senior Eunuch Radhesh. Not because of his words but because of the reason that Senior Eunuch Radhesh knew more about the inner and secretive businesses of the imperial family that he who is a mere minister of the government.
Senior Eunuch Radhesh observed Minister Nair's contrite expression, noting the genuine regret in his eyes. The air between them, once tense, began to ease as the lesson had clearly been understood. In the labyrinth of court politics, even a single misstep could be disastrous, and Radhesh had long since mastered the delicate dance of diplomacy that was necessary to navigate such treacherous waters.
Radhesh folded his hands into the sleeves of his robe, his voice taking on a more measured tone as he continued, "It is not just a matter of respect, Minister Nair, but of survival. The imperial court is a living entity, one that thrives on balance and order. Disrupt that balance, even unintentionally, and the consequences can be severe. We are all bound by the duty to uphold the dignity of the crown and the integrity of our empire."
Minister Nair remained bowed, a symbol of his understanding and acceptance of the rebuke. "I am grateful for your wisdom, Senior Eunuch Radhesh. I will ensure that my words reflect the respect and loyalty that our rulers deserve."
Senior Eunuch Radhesh nodded, satisfied with the response. "See that you do, Minister. The Yuvraj's union with Princess Abbhantripaja is more than a personal alliance; it is a symbol of the empire's future and its dominance over the other nation in the region. Without this, we might not that be able to pull the Kingdom of Siam completely in our nation."
With Senior Eunuch Radhesh's response, Minister Nair keeps in silence, patiently waiting for Yuvraj Siagu and Doctor Rizal to finishes their conversation that is ongoing for almost an hour already. Without even noticing the time and the rare moments Yuvraj Siagu could spend with his previous teacher, Doctor Rizal, the conversation between Yuvraj Siagu and Doctor Rizal deepens.
With smiles exiting the faces of both individuals, Minister Nair could conclude on how close the Yuvraj Siagu is towards his previous teacher. Which also explains the reason why the research of Doctor Rizal, basing on what Minister Nair heard is fully supported by the imperial family. Just like other researchers made by the scientists of the empire and the military.
A few hours later, after Yuvraj Siagu and Doctor Rizal finishes their conversation, farewells were told before Yuvraj Siagu, Senior Eunuch Radhesh, and Minister Nair, along with few members of the imperial household guards exited the laboratory. While on their way towards the location where the carriages were park, Yuvraj Siagu decided to take detour and made his way towards the museum of the institution.
Minister Nair offered to accompany Yuvraj Siagu to the museum but Yuvraj Siagu instead declined and insisted Minister Nair to return back to his office to have his work continue. Unable to pursue in accompanying the Yuvraj, Minister Nair decided to return back to his office, leaving Yuvraj Siagu and his entire entourage to head towards the institution's museum.
Bidding his farewell, Minister Nair proceeded to the parking area of his courage but before he could even arrive at the area. An entourage of guards and servants, accompanied by a palace courtier, can be seen heading towards the institution. What is peculiar for Minister Nair are the courtiers surrounding the individual, covered by a traditional Butuanon umbrella.
But what catches the attention of Minister Nair are the features some of the courtiers surrounding the individual under the umbrella, all are showing Siamese features. This made Minister Nair conclude that the individual under the umbrella originates from the Kingdom of Siam, and is not from a simple background.
Seeing that the group is heading towards his direction, Minister Nair decided to step back and allow the entourage to made its way. Upon passing, Minister Nair clearly saw the person under the umbrella and being protected by the encirclement of the courtiers. A smile of excitement exited his face before respectfully bowing his head, being able to discern individual entering the institution.